Utility Arborist

SSE Enterprise; Andover; Hybrid; GBP 29,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy company in the UK is seeking a Utility Arborist to join their mobile field team. The role involves managing cyclical tree cutting to maintain safety around power lines, with responsibilities during storms to prevent power outages. Candidates should have experience in forestry or arboriculture, relevant certificates for chainsaw use, and a commitment to safety. This position offers a competitive salary, flexible benefits, and a supportive workplace environment.

Benefits

Private healthcare discounts

Gym membership discounts

Wellbeing services

Interest-free loans for transport

Generous family leave benefits

Qualifications

• Must hold a current driving licence for travel requirements.
• Ability to adapt to changing project priorities.
• High regard for safety and adherence to guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Manage tree and vegetation within the distribution network.
• Perform cyclical tree cutting as per schedule.
• Evaluate and carry out tree cutting works safely.

Skills

Previous experience in forestry or arboriculture

Relevant NPTC certificate units for chainsaws

Experience working with power lines

Climbing experience

Strong safety awareness

Education

NPTC and UAs qualifications

Job description

Utility Arborist

Job Number : 556738

Closing at : Dec 27 2025 - 23 : 55 GMT

Base Location : Andover or Salisbury

This role is mobile and predominantly field based, and we require your base 'home' location to be within 30 minutes from our depots listed above.

Salary : £29,504 - £34,757 DOE, plus :

• 37 hour working week.
• Up to £4,442 for overtime payments & up to £3,820 for standby payments, giving you a potential of £8,262 extra per year.
• Full PPE and tools required for the position.
• Access to a company vehicle.
• A range of other benefits to support your family, finances, and wellbeing.

Working Pattern : Permanent | Full Time

We are looking for Utility Arborists to join our busy team!

We have roles available for Utility Arborist Team Leaders and Operatives. In these roles you will work primarily as part of a cyclical tree cutting programme, work will be managed to a tight schedule and alongside your highly skilled team you will manage trees & vegetation near our distribution network. Safety is at the forefront of all activities at SSE, and you will work with your team to evaluate, prepare, and carry out tree cutting works on a variety of sites and voltages.

In addition to your daily role, during high winds and storms, trees can contact our equipment and cause power cuts, and so we cut them down or trim them back to keep the lights on.

To see a snapshot of what a day in the life of a Utility Arborist looks like, please click on the link below :

You will have

• Previous experience in forestry, arboriculture, or a closely related field.
• Relevant NPTC certificate units for the use of chainsaws, and a qualification including NPTC and UAs
• Enthusiasm and drive with a flexible approach to work and an ability to adapt to changing business and project priorities.
• Experience of working with power lines, and climbing would be highly advantageous.
• A high regard for safety, embedding yourself in our safety culture and adhering to guidelines in everything you do is a key priority.

Travel is required and as a result we can only accept applications from candidates that hold a current driving licence.

About SSE

SSE has a bold ambition – to be a leading energy company in a net zero world. We're investing around £10 million a day in homegrown energy to help power a cleaner, more secure future. Our investment will see us build the world's largest offshore wind farm and transform the grid to deliver greener electricity to millions.

part of the wider SSE group, powers 3.9 million UK homes and businesses. Our team of more than 4,200 skilled engineers, customer service advisors and energy experts keep customers connected to a safe, reliable supply of electricity while investing in and developing the flexible networks needed for our low carbon future.

Flexible benefits to fit your life

Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships. Wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24 / 7 counselling service. Interest‑free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme. As well as generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.

Work with an equal opportunity employer

SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. please contact / 01738 344051 to discuss how we can support you.

We're dedicated to fostering an open and inclusive workplace where people from all backgrounds can thrive. We create equal opportunities for everyone to succeed and especially welcome applications from those who may not be well represented in our workforce or industry.

Ready to apply?

Start your online application using the Apply Now box on this page. We only accept applications made online. We'll be in touch after the closing date to let you know if we'll be taking your application further. If you're offered a role with SSE, you'll need to complete a criminality check and a credit check before you start work.

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